Finite-difference modeling of sonic wavefields with a dipping interface

Formation bedding can cause complex wave propagation in a borehole and introduce velocity bias in sonic logs. Because of the lack of symmetry, little is known about sonic wavefields propagating through a dipping bed. In this paper, we investigate effects on the sonic dipole and monopole wavefields across a dipping interface using a 3-D finite-difference method. For dipole wavefields propagating from a soft to a hard formation across a dipping interface, the transmission is reduced greatly when compared with a horizontal interface, The different transmissions of SV- and SH-waves through the dipping interface reduces the reflection across an interface. This may affect fracture evaluation using the Stoneley reflection coefficient in a dipping formation.